Leaked part hints at upcoming iPad 3 redesign

A leaked component that is purportedly part of Apple’s unannounced iPad 3 suggests that the tablet may feature a brand new design. The new part is a microphone mic flex cable ribbon that was leaked by TVC-Mall. Unlike the iPad 2, the flex cable in the iPad 3 makes a U-Turn, suggesting additional components have been reconfigured within the iPad 3’s case. Redesigned internal hardware don’t necessarily mean the iPad 3 will will feature a cosmetic redesign, but earlier reports claimed that Apple’s new iPad would feature a thicker case in order to accomodate a high-resolution display panel that isn’t quite as slender as the iPad 2’s panel. The latest rumors suggest Apple could unveil the tablet as soon as March or April, and it may also be working on a new smaller iPad model that will launch later in the year.